Name: Delicious Shrimp Ceviche: Brighten Your Day in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Raw Shrimp (Peeled and deveined, size 31-40); 2-3 limes Fresh Lime Juice (Juice from about 2-3 limes); 2 lemons Fresh Lemon Juice (Juice from about 2 lemons); 1 medium Red Onion (Finely diced); 2 medium Roma Tomatoes (Diced); 1 medium Avocado (Diced); 1 small Jalapeño (Minced, seeds removed for less spice); 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (Chopped finely); 1/2 cup Clamato Juice (Enhances flavor profile); to taste Salt & Pepper (Adjust according to personal preference)

As I savored the tangy, ocean-kissed bite of shrimp ceviche at a lively beachside café, I knew I had to recreate that vibrant experience at home. This authentic shrimp ceviche is not only a feast for the eyes but also an incredible appetizer that showcases the freshness of quality ingredients. With just under 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a dish that’s both dazzling and delightfully refreshing, making it a perfect choice for summer gatherings. The combination of sweet shrimp, zesty citrus, and creamy avocado creates a harmonious medley of flavors and textures that everyone will love. So, ready to dive into this culinary journey with me? Let’s get started on making your own shrimp ceviche!

What Makes This Shrimp Ceviche Special?

Fresh, Vibrant Ingredients: This shrimp ceviche bursts with freshness, thanks to sweet shrimp and zesty citrus.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a last-minute appetizer that impresses.
Creamy Delight: The addition of avocado adds a luxurious creamy texture that balances the flavors beautifully.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With its zesty kick from jalapeño and bright notes from cilantro, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to mix things up with fruits like mango or cucumber for a unique twist! If you’re looking for more seafood inspiration, check out my Bang Bang Shrimp Salad or try making Shrimp Pasta Comforting for a hearty meal.

Shrimp Ceviche Ingredients

• Fresh, zesty, and vibrant—let’s dive into the ingredients that bring this shrimp ceviche alive!

Raw Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp, size 31-40 for optimum texture.
Note: Using freshly thawed shrimp can enhance the flavor.
Fresh Lime Juice – This brightens the dish, requiring juice from about 2-3 limes.
Substitution: Fresh lemon juice can be used for added brightness.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Complements lime juice and balances acidity with juice from about 2 lemons.
Note: Avoid bottled juice for the best flavor.
Red Onion – Fine dice this savory ingredient for depth and crunch in your ceviche.
Substitution: Green onions can be used for a milder flavor.
Roma Tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, this variety holds up best in the ceviche when diced.
Substitution: Any ripe tomato can work, but Roma is preferred.
Avocado – Adds a creamy richness that elevates the dish’s texture.
Substitution: No direct substitute; avocado is essential for creaminess.
Jalapeño – Provides heat; remove seeds for less spice and mince for even distribution.
Substitution: Use a milder pepper for a gentler kick, if desired.
Fresh Cilantro – Brings freshness to the mix; chop finely before adding to the ceviche.
Substitution: Basil can provide a different herbal note if you’re feeling adventurous.
Clamato Juice – This ingredient enhances the overall flavor profile with a touch of brininess.
Note: This is a key flavor element and not easily substituted.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; add to taste to balance the flavors beautifully.
Note: Adjust according to personal preference after mixing everything together.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Ceviche

Step 1: Cook Shrimp
Start by bringing a medium pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking them for 1-2 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Immediately remove the shrimp and plunge them into an ice bath to cool for about 5 minutes, ensuring they stop cooking completely. Drain and chop if they are large.

Step 2: Marinate Shrimp
In a glass bowl, combine the cooled shrimp with freshly squeezed lime juice and lemon juice, ensuring the shrimp are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the shrimp to marinate in the citrus juices, which will enhance the flavors and add zest to your shrimp ceviche.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
After the shrimp have marinated, carefully remove the bowl from the refrigerator. Add finely chopped red onion, diced Roma tomatoes, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro, mixing gently to incorporate everything. Pour in Clamato juice for an added layer of flavor, ensuring all ingredients are well coated and evenly distributed for that vibrant shrimp ceviche experience.

Step 4: Seasoning
Taste your shrimp ceviche mixture and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. This final touch is crucial, as it balances the freshness of the ingredients with just the right amount of flavor. Once seasoned, serve immediately with crispy tortilla chips, allowing everyone to enjoy this refreshing dish right away!

Shrimp Ceviche Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these exciting twists on shrimp ceviche; your taste buds will thank you!

Citrus Burst: Add orange juice for an extra layer of sweetness and a fruity kick. It complements the tangy lime perfectly, creating a delightful contrast in flavors.
Tropical Twist: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple for a refreshing, sweet addition that brightens the dish. The juicy fruit pairs beautifully with the shrimp and citrus.
Spicy Upgrade: Increase the heat by adding diced serrano peppers instead of jalapeños. They pack a punch for those who crave a fiery experience!
Vegan Delight: Use diced hearts of palm instead of shrimp for a plant-based version that still captures the refreshing flavors of ceviche. Serve chilled with your favorite tortilla chips.
Herbal Infusion: Swap cilantro for fresh basil for a unique herbal flair that gives a slightly different taste profile. It’s a refreshing change if you’re looking to mix things up!
Creamy Avocado: Experiment with a dollop of Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream to add extra creaminess to your ceviche. This twist creates a rich texture that everyone will love.
Non-Briny Option: Mix tomato juice with a splash of lime juice if you prefer a lighter version without Clamato juice. It’s a great way to adjust the zing while maintaining flavor.

For more delicious shrimp ideas, don’t miss my New Orleans Shrimp or whip up a comforting dish with my Shrimp Pasta Comforting. Enjoy creating your perfect ceviche masterpiece!

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp Ceviche preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or meal planning enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp in lime and lemon juice up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for a delicious outcome. For best results, keep the marinated shrimp covered in the refrigerator and add the diced vegetables, avocado, and Clamato juice just before serving to maintain their crispness and prevent browning. This approach ensures that your shrimp ceviche is fresh and vibrant when it’s time to enjoy. Simply mix in those final ingredients and season to taste for a bright, zesty appetizer that’s always ready to impress!

What to Serve with Authentic Shrimp Ceviche?

When hosting a summer gathering, pairing refreshing dishes elevates your meal, turning it into an unforgettable feast filled with vibrant flavors.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: These crunchy delights provide the perfect vehicle for your ceviche, enhancing its fresh, zesty qualities while adding a satisfying crunch.
Cool Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole adds an extra level of indulgence, perfectly balancing the tangy shrimp ceviche’s acidity.
Zesty Mango Salsa: The sweet brightness of mango salsa complements the heat of the jalapeño, creating a delightful contrast that tantalizes the taste buds.
Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, lime, and cilantro brings in sweetness while adding a colorful element to your dining table.
Coconut Rice: Lightly fragrant coconut rice offers a subtly sweet base that harmonizes with the zesty flavors of the ceviche, creating a delightful texture.
Refreshing Watermelon Salad: Juicy watermelon with a hint of mint provides a hydrating, sweet note that cleanses the palate between bites of shrimp ceviche.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Rosé enhances the overall experience, elevating the flavors while maintaining a refreshing vibe.
Lime Sorbet: For a cool finish, serve a scoop of lime sorbet that echoes the ceviche’s citrusy notes and cleanses the palate after the meal.
Spicy Paloma Cocktail: This refreshing cocktail, made with grapefruit soda, lime, and tequila, carries a vibrant spirit that pairs perfectly with the ceviche’s flavors.

Expert Tips for Shrimp Ceviche

Freshness Matters: Always choose fresh, quality shrimp to elevate your ceviche. Frozen can work if thawed properly, but don’t compromise on freshness.
Avoid Overcooking: Watch the shrimp closely while boiling; overcooking will make them tough. They should just turn pink and opaque.
Perfect Marination Time: Allow at least 15 minutes for marinating in citrus juices to fully develop flavors, but longer can enhance the taste of your shrimp ceviche.
Balance the Heat: Adjust the jalapeño to your preference; seeds add heat, but for a milder dish, remove them or use milder peppers instead.
Texture Check: Incorporate diced ingredients gently to maintain their texture. Mixing too vigorously can mash the avocado and tomatoes, altering the ceviche’s appeal.
Serve Immediately: For best taste and texture, serve your shrimp ceviche right after preparing it. If storing, limit to 1-2 hours to prevent sogginess.

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Ceviche

Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy shrimp ceviche immediately after preparation. If left out, do not exceed 2 hours to maintain freshness and avoid any food safety issues.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. Beyond that, the texture will deteriorate, and the flavors may not be as vibrant.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for shrimp ceviche, as it affects the texture of the shrimp and vegetables. Freshly made shrimp ceviche is always best enjoyed right away.
Reheating: This dish is not suitable for reheating, as it’s served chilled and the flavors are brightest when fresh. Serve it cold with crispy tortilla chips for the best experience.

Shrimp Ceviche Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for ceviche?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for raw shrimp sized 31-40, which are ideal for ceviche. Ensure they are peeled and deveined to enhance the texture and flavor of the dish. I often recommend using freshly thawed shrimp for a more vibrant taste, but if frozen is all you have, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

How can I store leftover shrimp ceviche?
Very! If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to eat shrimp ceviche right after making it for optimal freshness and texture. Leftovers can be kept for up to 2 hours in the fridge, after which the ingredients may start to lose their crispness and flavor.

Can I freeze shrimp ceviche for later use?
While I understand the convenience of freezing, I must advise against it for shrimp ceviche. The texture of the shrimp and the freshness of the vegetables will be compromised once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so if you’re making it in advance, keep it in the fridge and consume within a couple of hours!

What if my shrimp are tough after cooking?
The key here is cooking shrimp just until they are pink and opaque—this usually takes only 1-2 minutes in boiling water. If they turn tough, it may be due to overcooking. For the next batch, try keeping a close watch and immediately plunge them into ice water after cooking to halt the process.

Is shrimp ceviche safe for everyone to eat?
That’s a great question! While shrimp ceviche is certainly delicious, it’s important to ensure that anyone consuming it is not allergic to seafood. Additionally, pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems should avoid raw seafood due to the potential risk of foodborne illnesses. It’s always best to check with your guests first!

Can I make substitutions in the ceviche ingredients?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. For example, if you’d like to reduce spiciness, consider using a milder pepper or removing the seeds from the jalapeño. You can also swap Clamato with a mix of tomato juice and seasonings if you’re looking for a less briny flavor. Feel free to get creative!